Apple's iPhone line has been at the forefront of smartphone technology for years. With each new model, Apple sets new standards in terms of innovation and user experience. According to current rumors, the upcoming iPhone 17 will bring an interesting change: a mechanical aperture for portrait mode.
Since the launch of the first iPhone, camera technology has continued to evolve. Features like Portrait mode have changed the way we take and share photos. But despite the impressive progress, there is still room for improvement. The iPhone 17's mechanical aperture could be just what many photography enthusiasts have been hoping for.
What is a mechanical aperture?
A mechanical shutter is a system that allows you enablesto manually change the size of your camera's aperture. The aperture controls how much light enters the camera. In previous iPhone models, the aperture was always fixed. In contrast, some Android smartphones, such as Samsung's Galaxy S9 series, have offered variable apertures for years.
Advantages of the mechanical aperture in the iPhone 17
- Improved Portrait mode: A mechanical aperture lets you set a smaller aperture to capture photos with a natural depth of field effect. This means your subject stays sharp while the background blurs. Previously, this effect was created artificially on the iPhone, which sometimes led to problems separating the foreground and background.
- Manual Control: Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the ability to manually adjust the aperture. This gives you more creative control over your photos and allows you to take better shots in different lighting conditions.
- Professional results: A variable aperture takes the iPhone 17 to a new level and brings it closer to professional cameras. This could be of particular interest to content creators and influencers who rely on the quality of their shots.
Expected release and models
According to recent reports, Apple plans to launch the iPhone 17 series in September 2025. It is speculated that the mechanical bezel will be exclusive to the high-end model, the "iPhone 17 Ultra" (also tentatively called "iPhone 17 Slim"). Of course, these plans are subject to change as the release is more than a year away.
A look into the future: The iPhone 17 and its innovations
The iPhone 17 promises to be one of the most exciting releases in Apple's history. With the introduction of a mechanical aperture for portrait mode, Apple could once again impress. If you are a photography enthusiast or just want to take the best photos with your smartphone, you should keep an eye on the developments surrounding the iPhone 17. (Photo by MediaWhalestock / Bigstockphoto)
- Coming in 2026: Apple's first iPhone with foldable display
- iPhone 17: Ultra, Air or Slim? The rumors at a glance